From MNL Fashion Week to Manila International Book Fair, Things To Do in Manila this September 2026

Vogue Philippines suggests some things to do and places to visit in and around Metro Manila this September 2026, focusing on initiatives that highlight craft, community, and culture.

It’s officially the start of the “ber” months. In the Philippines, this means the holiday season is just around the corner. But while households prepare to decorate their homes, the Metro has plenty of activities and events to kick off the season. From Manila Fashion Week to book fairs, here’s what to add to your calendar this month.

MNL Fashion Week 2026

What: A Filipino fashion event showcasing contemporary collections from local designers and labels.
Where: SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier, BGC, Taguig
When: September 3-6, 2026
Why: Spotlights Filipino designers and contemporary interpretations of local fashion across four days of runway shows.
Contact: For inquiries, email [email protected]

The Notebook: The Musical

What: A theatrical musical adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ 1996 novel and subsequent film adaptation.
Where: Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati, Makati City
When: September 3-20, 2026
Why: Marks the licensed Philippine production of the Broadway musical written by Bekah Brunstetter, with music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson.
Contact: For more information, email [email protected]

Katutubo x Bench Pop-Up Market

What: An artisan retail market showcasing indigenous crafts, textiles, fashion, and home products.
Where: Bench Tower, BGC, Taguig City
When: September 18-20, 2026
Why: Features direct vendor stalls from indigenous weaving communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao without commercial retail markups.
Contact: To stay updated, follow Katutubo Pop Up Market’s Instagram page

Ballet Philippines: 1001 Nights

What: A full-length classical ballet production interpreting the Arabian Nights stories.
Where: Theatre at Solaire, Solaire Resort Entertainment City, Parañaque City
When: September 11-13, 2026
Why: Marks the opening of the 57th season of Ballet Philippines with a full-length production.
Contact: For more information, email [email protected]

Bongga Ka, ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical

What: An original jukebox musical using the discography of 1970s Manila Sound group Hotdog. Where: Newport Performing Arts Theater, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City
When: Opens September 18 to October 10, 2026
Why: Integrates original disco compositions from Dennis and René Garcia that defined urban OPM culture during the late 20th century.
Contact: To stay updated, follow Viva Records‘ Instagram page

Philippine Ballet Theatre: Passion and Purpose

What: A mixed-repertoire ballet showcase consisting of classical excerpts and modern dance pieces.
Where: Tanghalang Haribon, InLife Corporate Centre, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
When: September 20, 2026
Why: Preserves classical dance while uplifting Filipino culture and supporting the youth through charity events.
Contact: To stay updated, follow Philippine Ballet Theatre‘s Instagram page

Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) 2026

What: The largest annual trade fair for books and publications in the Philippines.
Where: SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City
When: September 9-13, 2026
Why: Features over 100 local and international publishing houses, academic presses, and direct-from-publisher retail discounts across two floors.
Contact: For more information, check MIBF‘s official website

Midsummer Night’s Dream 

What: A stage adaptation of William Shakespeare’s classic comedy featuring romantic entanglements and fairy folklore.
Where: St. Scholastica’s College, Malate, Manila
When: September 12-27, 2026.
Why: Features live classical theater direction and production work from Metro Manila’s premier local theater foundation actors.
Contact: To stay updated, follow Repertory Philippines‘ Instagram page

Super Manila Comic Con 2026

What: A convention dedicated to comic books, graphic novels, action figures, and pop culture media.
Where: One Ayala, Makati City
When: September 4-6, 2026
Why: Hosts international comic illustrators, self-published comic artist tables, and official license-holder toy distributor displays.
Contact: For more information, visit Super Manila’s official website

Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration

What: An official Warner Bros. licensed interactive event styled after the Triwizard Tournament dance from the franchise.
Where: The Space at Solaire, Solaire Resort Entertainment City, Parañaque City
When: September 3 to October 4, 2026
Why: An official global franchise pop-up featuring set recreations, official merchandise counters, and themed food and beverage menus.
Contact: For more information, visit Harry Potter Yule Ball‘s official website

World Pet Expo 2026

What: A trade show focusing on companion animal products, veterinary services, and pet care technology.
Where: World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City
When: September 24-27, 2026
Why: Gathers veterinary equipment manufacturers, pet food importers, and animal welfare organizations offering direct consumer pricing.
Contact: For more information, visit World Pet Expo‘s official website

Culinary Masterclass Series (Solaire Resort)

What: A culinary workshop series taught by Chefs Marcelo Urresti, who will showcase Latin American cuisine; Jomarie Verdon, who will focus on Filipino pastry; and Dawson Liu and Tai Siew Hong, who will lead the Chinese cuisine sessions, respectively.
Where: Culinary Center, Solaire Resort Entertainment City, Parañaque City
When: September 15, 22, & 29, 2026
Why: Held in commercial kitchen facilities, focusing on specific technical skills such as butchery, pastry art, and wine pairing principles.